As the weather takes a dramatic turn across Mexico, residents are bracing for a series of intense storms brought on by Cold Front No. 42. The National Meteorological Service has issued warnings for various regions, predicting heavy rains, strong winds, and even hail in some areas. This weather system is expected to impact cities from the Yucatán Peninsula to Mexico City and beyond, marking a significant shift from the recent heatwave.
On Friday, May 9, 2025, the state of Yucatán was among the first to feel the effects of the incoming front. According to Procivy, a strong rain is set to close out the week, with adverse weather conditions primarily affecting the northeastern, central, and southern municipalities of the state. Rainfall is forecasted to begin between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM in Mérida and will extend into the night. The prefrontal trough associated with Cold Front No. 42 is expected to bring not only rainfall but also strong winds, electrical activity, and possible turbonadas, particularly along the coast. Local authorities have advised residents to avoid outdoor activities during this period, especially in coastal areas from Progreso to Dzilam de Bravo.
On Saturday, May 10, 2025, the definitive entry of Cold Front No. 42 will bring moderate rains to Mérida and strong winds with gusts of up to 45 km/h, alongside potential thunderstorms. Despite the anticipated rain, temperatures in the interior of the state could still reach a scorching 41°C to 42°C, with coastal areas experiencing slightly cooler temperatures of 32°C to 34°C. Civil Protection officials have urged the public to take precautions, stay informed, and avoid venturing out during heavy rain.
Meanwhile, in Mexico City, the Secretariat of Comprehensive Risk Management and Civil Protection (SGIRPC) has also issued a forecast for rain this weekend, from May 9 to May 11. The SGIRPC detailed that the city will experience showers and strong punctual rains on Saturday and Sunday, which may be accompanied by hail and electrical activity. On Saturday, temperatures are expected to reach a maximum of 22°C to 24°C, while Sunday will see a slight drop to 21°C to 23°C. Although no rain is expected on Monday, strong gusts of wind will persist. Residents are advised to prepare for a rainy weekend, especially those planning to celebrate Mother’s Day.
In the northern regions of Mexico, the cold front is causing a cooling effect, with rain and electrical discharges expected in states such as Tamaulipas and Veracruz. A report from Ciudad Victoria on May 9 indicated that the front would also interact with a low-pressure channel, leading to torrential rains in Veracruz and Oaxaca, and intense showers in Hidalgo, Puebla, Chiapas, and Tabasco. The National Meteorological Service forecasts heavy rains in Tamaulipas, with punctual intense rains of 50 to 75 millimeters and strong winds reaching up to 80 km/h. Residents in these areas are being warned of potential flooding, overflowing streams, and landslides.
In Veracruz, the effects of Cold Front No. 42 have already been felt, with municipalities reporting intense rains and even hail in some cases. In Soteapan, locals were surprised by the unexpected hail, which is attributed to humidity, atmospheric instability, and orographic conditions. Jessica Iveth Luna Lagunes from the National Water Commission noted that such events can occur sporadically during spring and the cold front season. The central mountainous area of Veracruz, including municipalities like Córdoba and Fortín, has also seen significant rainfall. The Secretariat of Civil Protection has warned of winds from the North at speeds of 45 to 60 km/h, with gusts reaching 80 km/h in storm zones.
As the cold front continues to sweep across the country, the National Meteorological Service has urged residents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions. The forecast indicates that while this month may see less rainfall than usual, the upcoming month of June is expected to bring above-average precipitation.
In summary, Mexico is bracing for a weekend of severe weather as Cold Front No. 42 brings heavy rainfall, strong winds, and a significant drop in temperatures across various regions. From the Yucatán Peninsula to Mexico City and beyond, residents are advised to stay informed and prepared for the potential impacts of this weather system.
